This year’s theme of the general debate is the role of mediation in the peaceful settlement of disputes, and earlier this year the General Assembly adopted a resolution – the joint initiative of Finland and Turkey – calling for a greater role for mediation.

Ms. Halonen said that peace processes must also be more inclusive, stressing the need for women to play a more prominent role. “The record is far from impressive at the moment as the number of women around the negotiation tables continues to be strikingly low.”